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Minnesota Crop News > 2001-2008 Archives

There’s an old adage that states that the value of something purchased is directly proportional to the price paid. In other words, you get what you pay for. So, what, then, is the value of free advice? Because of the excessive rains in early summer of 2004, there is an opportunity to get an answer to this question.

In May and June, repeated heavy rains filled the water holding capacity of most soils in the state. Soils remained saturated for extended periods of time. Many were concerned about loss of nitrogen that had been applied in the fall of 2003. Leaching was not a major concern with the fine textured soils. The greatest potential for loss from these soils was through the process of denitrification.

After careful consideration of the situation, there was a decision to recommend two management practices to those concerned about nitrogen loss. The first was an application of an additional 40 to 50 lb. N per acre. The second was to cultivate after the extra N was applied. These suggestions were distributed to Minnesota farmers and those who advise them through the news media and radio. There was no cost. Corn growers were not charged for this advice. The information was free.

Some chose to add supplemental N. Others chose to add supplemental N and cultivate. Others chose to use neither management practice. Some growers left check strips so that they could determine if the added N was beneficial. As corn harvest progresses, some of these results are now becoming available.

One crop consultant, working in central Minnesota, has reported results from 5 growers who added supplemental N. One of the 5 reported no yield increase. Added bushels from the additional N reported by the others ranged from 5 to 25 bushels. The average rate of supplemental N was 40 lb. per acre. Assigning a value of $.22 per lb. of N, this additional N cost $8.36 per acre. The average yield increase was 14 bu. per acre. Valued at $2.25 per bushel, this was worth and additional $31.50 per acre. The added net value was $23.14 per acre. For these producers who used the free advice, the net return was positive.

Another farmer from west-central Minnesota reported by phone that an additional 40 lb. N per acre produced an added 8 bu. per acre. This added N increased net income by $9.20 per acre.

There was no guarantee that the suggested additional N would have a positive effect in every field. However, there was a high probability that the 15 to 20 inches of rain in central Minnesota would produce some loss of previously applied N. Many fields had plants with a light green color – a clear indication of N deficiency or shortage.

The information in this newsletter admittedly comes from a limited number of corn producers. It would be good to hear from others who added supplemental N in June and compared yield of that treatment to the yield from a check strip. This can be done by phone (612) 625-6210 or e-mail, rehmx001@umn.edu.

It’s possible to argue that free advice is not always good. In 2004, this free advice may pay large dividends for corn growers. Other reports are invited and welcome.